Mahindra XUV700

• The XUV700 with its large size has great road presence. I like the way it looks especially in darker colours such as black and dark blue.

• Mahindra has opted for an aggressive design with fang-shaped LED daytime running lamps, wide grille and an upright stance.

• The top AX7/AX7L variants get 18-inch alloy wheels. In the mid-spec AX5 model, 17-inch alloy wheels are provided.

• With full-LED headlights, LED tail lamps and dynamic turn indicators, the XUV700 boasts of an impressive lighting package. 

• My favourite design element have to be the flush-fitting door handles which are also motorised in the top model.

• Mahindra has opted for a simple and sober interior design, and a neutral black-beige-silver colour combination. 

• Plastic quality could have been better, but you won’t have issues with fit and finish. Higher variants get soft-touch materials on the dashboard which makes the experience better.

• There’s enough space in the door pockets, under the central armrest and glovebox for your items. Storage for the second and third row are ample too. 

• If you have elders in the family, I would recommend installing side steps for their convenience. Getting in and out is easier for everyone else.

• The front seats are wide and comfortable. You can very easily spend hours here on road trips.

• I found the second row space to be ample for my 5’11” height — there’s ample legroom, under-thigh support and headroom. There’s enough width for three people to sit comfortably. 

• Accessing the third row is easy with one-touch tumble function. In the captain seat variant — you have to recline and slide the seat forward which isn’t very convenient. 

• I did not like that the second row position is fixed, a sliding seat would have allowed occupants to make space as per requirement.

• In the third row, anyone upto 5’8” should be comfortable. Kids will have no issues. Dedicated AC vents, cupholders and charging points are available.

Features

Here’s a quick look at the highlight features of the Mahindra XUV700:

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• The XUV700 gets a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, thanks to a packed list of standard features.

• Higher variants also get Level-2 ADAS systems, which work well in our chaotic conditions. Can be turned off entirely if needed.

• With all seats up, the XUV700’s boot can only accommodate a few backpacks or duffle bags.

• I like that the third row folds flat, opening up a wide and flat storage area. You can accommodate large suitcases with ease for those airport runs.

2.0-litre Turbo Petrol

• The highlight of this engine is the refinement. There are no harsh vibrations or sounds leading to a very calm experience. 

• For city drives, I liked the strong acceleration and instant throttle response. 

• While the manual has a light clutch and easy gear throws, I will prefer the automatic for its smooth shifts and stress-free experience.

• The petrol XUV700 feels at home on the highway. It maintains 100-120kmph with ease and has enough power to go further still comfortably. 

• I would recommend the automatic for its convenience. Those with low usage can consider the manual. 

• Don’t expect very high fuel efficiency from this engine, especially with the automatic. For city drives, expect 7-10kmpl. On open highways, fuel efficiency will be substantially better, between 12-14kmpl. 

2.2-litre Turbo Petrol

• This engine is tried-and-tested, and known for its reliability. 

• Driving inside the city is easy, thanks to the torque available. You can easily cruise around in second gear. 

• I found the travel of the clutch to be on the higher side, which can be tiring in the city. Clutch weight, however, isn’t bothersome. 

• On the highways, you will have no issues climbing to triple digit speeds, maintaining it and even overtaking. 

• Pick the automatic if you foresee a lot of in-city driving or want more comfort on long trips.

• All-wheel drive is available with the diesel-automatic combination, in case you want to explore sandy/snowy terrains. 

• The diesel engine has good mileage too, returning 10-12kmpl inside the city and 15kmpl and above on the highways.

• The XUV700 has a very comfortable ride quality over a variety of surfaces.

• High speed stability is impressive and even quick lane changes at high speeds do not unsettle the car. 

• Ample ground clearance ensures peace of mind over rough roads. Minor cabin movement aside, no real complaints. 

• Steering is light enough at city speeds and has adequate weight for the highway. 

• Braking performance is acceptable, but pedal feel can be improved.

Is the Mahindra XUV700 right for you?

The Mahindra XUV700 is an SUV which ticks all the boxes of a family SUV and then some. It’s exceptionally comfortable, the cabin is premium, well-loaded with features and offers a spacious experience in a package that has a proven safety rating.

The multiple seating layouts and powertrain options help make it even more suitable for your specific use case, and it’s a car that you won’t go wrong with.

Other cars to consider instead of the Mahindra XUV700

Tata Safari

Reasons to consider

• Bolder design and colour options may look more appealing

• Gets more features for captain seats (second row)

Reasons to ignore

• No petrol option

• No all-wheel drive option

• Poor diesel engine refinement

Jeep Compass

Reasons to consider

• Solid build quality

• Feels more enthusiast-oriented

Reasons to ignore

• No petrol option

• No third row seats

• Feels less family oriented

Hyundai Alcazar

Reasons to consider

• More affordable

• Gets more features for captain seats (second row)

Reasons to ignore

• Less powerful engines

• No all-wheel drive option

• Comparatively less comfortable